KUALA LUMPUR – Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, a warrior’s spirit is defined by the ability to rebound from devastating falls, achieving true triumph by rising again, more powerful than ever.
This tale of defiance resonates with the unbent and unbroken spirit of Faisal Halim, who couldn’t wait to lace up his boots and step onto the pitch for Selangor FC.
The 26-year-old winger became a victim of an acid attack last month, splashed while he was with his family at a shopping centre in Petaling Jaya.
Faisal suffered fourth-degree burns on several parts of his body and required intensive care.
After undergoing multiple surgeries and a skin transplant procedure with skin imported from Belgium at a hospital in Shah Alam, Faisal was reported as stable and discharged.
He is currently in the first phase of his recovery before starting sports rehabilitation.
Selangor FC head coach Nidzam Jamil revealed to Scoop that his stalwart player has been in constant touch with his teammates, showing a strong urge to contribute to the Red Giants’ success in their ongoing Super League campaign.
“I text him daily to check in, and he’s very happy with the team’s performance,” Nidzam said.
“He never fails to send voice notes in our WhatsApp group, interacting with all the players and wishing the team the best.
“He always tells me he can’t wait to be back on the pitch and contribute to the team’s success. He looks forward to making a comeback.”
Faisal, nicknamed Mickey, has demonstrated remarkable strength, consistently expressing his desire to train with the team.
“As a coach, I don’t have the heart to say no because I don’t want to kill the warrior spirit in him.
“If it weren’t for his unhealed wounds, he would definitely come back and start training, he’s that committed to the club and the team.
“Even in such a situation, he’s always eager to contribute, and as a coach, it’s rare to find a player like him.
“He’s the sweetheart of the club and the nation, for me, he’s a fighter who doesn’t like to lose, and he always gives his 100% during training sessions.
“That’s what’s making him fight for a comeback because he loves the team so much,” said Nidzam when contacted.
Nidzam has assured Faisal of a spot in the team upon his return from rehabilitation, emphasising that a coach must honour a player’s dedication and commitment.
“When he says he wants to come back for training as soon as possible, it’s just his warrior mentality. I also wish and want him back in training soon, but I need to prioritise his health.
“As a footballer, he wants to be on the pitch with his teammates. His situation is like the Covid-19 pandemic we all experienced, where you are at home for 24 hours and hindered from doing what you love.
“I want him to get what he wants, and it’s my responsibility to give him what he deserves once he’s back from his recovery,” Nidzam added.
Faisal joined the Red Giants from Terengganu FC last year, and scored 12 goals in 28 appearances in all competitions last season.
Selangor currently ranks fourth in the Super League table, with six points from three games, having played only two matches after withdrawing from the Charity Shield, which gave Johor Darul Ta’zim a walkover win and three points. – June 7, 2024